Typical and Atypical Agents(01:07)

Antipsychotic classes can cause electrocardiogram changes, and should be used with caution in arrhythmia patients. The FDA no longer approves them for dementia-related psychosis, due to an increase in cardiovascular and infection fatality risk in elderly patients.

Miscellaneous Side Effects(00:51)

Priapism is associated with trazodone (Desyrel). Liver failure has been reported with nefazodone (Serzone).

Mood Stabilizing Agents(03:37)

Lithium remains the most common drug for bipolar disorder. Toxicity can occur with drug interactions or overdose; hear symptoms. Blood levels greater than 1.5 millimoles per liter can become life-threatening. Serum levels and urine output should be monitored.

Anticonvulsants(00:54)

Antianxiety Agents(02:08)

Benzodiazepines, including clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), and alprazolam (Xanax) are short term anxiety treatments. Clonazepam can increase suicide risk. Buspirone (Buspar) takes two weeks to take effect. These drugs can cause paradoxical excitement; CNS depressants should be avoided.

Psychotropic Medication Side Effects Summary(00:41)

Caregivers should be attentive, recognize any unusual symptoms, and take action to remedy them.

Description

This video looks at the side effects of specific psychotropic medications used in the treatment of mental disorders, including both first generation agents as well as second generation. It teaches how to manage the different adverse reactions to ensure the patients continue treatment.